PPG Trains More than 10,000 in Waterborne “Convert With Confidence” Program.

According to PPG Automotive Refinish, more than 10,000 technicians across the United States and Canada have attended the PPG “Convert with Confidence” training program to help their transition to waterborne basecoat. The development of the program was spurred in part by governmental mandates anticipated in a number of states and already in effect in California and Canada. To assist collision centers in the transition, PPG began the Convert with Confidence program in 2007 to provide shop owners, managers, and technicians with training and support before, during and after the conversions.

Collision center managers have had very positive reactions to PPG’s program. “It was an easy transition for us,” said Bruce Dennis, body shop director for ABC Nissan, Phoenix AZ. “With the training we received, it was great. Anytime you go and change a paint line everyone gets real hesitant and a little excited, but it was real easy, really seamless.”

“We have found that shops that follow the PPG Convert with Confidence approach have been extremely successful in the conversion from solvent to PPG waterborne,” said Bill Troyer, PPG Automotive Refinish manager of training. “The key to success is having a solid conversion process and PPG has created the plan that works.”

“Conversion was so simple, it was unbelievable,” said John Reilly, general manager, Gary Yeoman’s Ford Automall Body Shop, Daytona Beach, FL. “They put the system in and we started spraying the next day. No hiccups or anything.”

Low VOC basecoats will also be mandated for twelve northeastern states and the District of Columbia as early as 2012. With the focus on green processes and products, it appears it is only a matter of time until waterborne systems will be recommended throughout the country. PPG urges shop owners to use the Convert with Confidence program to help make their transition as easy as possible.

PPG conference is a massive success

Success in today’s world of collision repair is highly dependent on how well owners and managers understand the differing attitudes and preferences in play between today’s four distinct generations. That’s the view of Cam Marston, noted author and authority on multi-generational communications, speaking at the recent PPG MVP Business Solutions Conference held at San Diego’s Paradise Point Hotel. The sold-out conference, themed “Beyond Tomorrow,” drew more than 320 PPG-affiliated collision center professionals, making it the most highly attended MVP conference ever.

In his address, Marston noted that preparing for the future includes bringing out the best from employees. With four generations – known as Matures, Boomers, Xers and Millennials – now working side by side, part of that challenge is communicating and managing effectively across generational lines by treating employees as individuals. Marston defined the generations by age, Matures – 65 and older, Baby Boomers – 46 to 64, Gen Xers – 31 to 45, and Millennials – 30 and younger. He went through each generation’s characteristics, their expectations and how those qualities affect their work.

According to Marston, understanding generational differences can ease workplace frustration while increasing teamwork and productivity. For example, most Matures and Boomers put a lot of stock in their work ethic and job commitment, while for Gen Xers and Millennials, their primary identity is outside the workplace. That doesn’t mean one generation is more productive than another, it simply means each typically has its own way of doing things. Tailoring communications to reflect these distinctions is the key to success. Marston’s words resonated with his audience.

“I was very impressed,” said Sharon Wells, general manager of Collision Clinic, St. John’s NL, Canada. “We’re so busy just getting the job done, we sometimes don’t think about our workforce as individuals. His information was of paramount importance. I was with two others from my shop – we represented three different generations – and we now understand each other better.”

Attention to Social Media

Another significant difference Marston pointed out is the greater use of social media by Gen Xers and Millennials than by Matures and Boomers. His statistics show 77 percent of Millennials and 61 percent of Gen Xers maintain an Internet social media Web site profile compared to 36 percent for Matures and 46 percent for Boomers. Projections indicate these percentages will grow. This also ties in to the younger generations’ thirst for information. The topic drew plenty of attention.

“In terms of pure numbers, social media plays a big role in how we need to communicate in the future,” said Norm Angrove, senior manager, PPG Value Added Programs, who facilitated a discussion group on the topic. “There are 900 million visitors to social media sites every day. And 74 percent of that is in the United States. Twitter is growing at a 3000 percent pace. Marketing today involves the five “Cs” of social media – content, community, conversation, collaboration and connection. We can’t ignore that. Collision shops have to put their message out there using this new media.”

Selling to multi-generational customers

Marston pointed out that shop owners must recognize generational differences when selling their collision repair services: what is learned about communicating inside the collision center applies to cross-generational customers as well, especially now with social media marketing flourishing.

“Social media is already a big part of our marketing mix. It is an essential tool that will help us stay ahead,” said Sal Contreras, marketing director for Mike Rose’s Auto Body in Concord, CA. “I heard a lot of great ideas at the conference, so we plan to use the information significantly more in the future to connect with customers, insurance agents and the insurers.”

Additional speakers, seminars and breakout discussion sessions all focused on providing attendees with assistance and tools for improving their business model and preparing their center and employees for success “beyond tomorrow.” Noted industry experts, Chris Miller, senior editor of ABRN Magazine and Githesh Ramamurthy, CEO of CCC Information Services, addressed the conference on the topics of “The State of Collision Repair” and “Data and Analysis the Industry Must Understand” respectively.

PPG has introduced ColorMobile, a new convenient tool providing fast and easy Internet access to all color formulas for domestic and import vehicle colors. ColorMobile is especially designed for repairers who work away from collision centers and need access to color formulations wherever they travel. All that’s needed to use ColorMobile is a password and a mobile device with access to the Internet.

“We’re very excited to offer ColorMobile to our customers,” said Beth Ramsey, PPG global color marketing and communications manager. “It’s the ideal solution for vehicle refinishers who work on the road and otherwise would not have access to our color databases via their desktop computer. ColorMobile gives them instant 24/7 access to the information they need wherever they’re working. ColorMobile is a valuable and productive tool, and a key part of the PPG Color Retrieval System.”

Using ColorMobile, repairers are able to tap into the PPG or Nexa Autocolor Online Color websites. Color formulas are updated daily and the database contains both National Rule and compliant/waterborne system information covering all manufacturer colors including both prime and variant formulations. In addition, since ColorMobile is designed specifically for mobile repairers, it offers the ability to mix in very small amounts – as little as one ounce – as needed. To use ColorMobile, a repairer simply accesses the appropriate website URL and enters their approved password and e-mail address.

If you already have access to PPG or Nexa Autocolor Online Color Formulations and a mobile device with internet connectivity, you can enjoy many of the current features of Online Color—any time, anywhere. ColorMobile is the ideal solution for repairers who need instant access to color formulations “on the fly”. Simply log on to ColorMobile here https://buyat.ppg.com/colormobile/ppgna using your current PPG online password and username, and choose from all the latest color formulas for domestic and import car, fleet, or any type of manufacturer colors.

PPG Refinish has launched its new MVP Business Solutions website. The site can be accessed directly at www.ppgmvp.com. The new site is tailored to the needs of PPG’s collision center customers and devoted exclusively to MVP training, tools and services.

“We are excited about having a website wholly dedicated to our business solutions offerings,” said Jim Berkey, director, MVP Business Solutions. “We have a strong leadership position in the collision repair industry with our MVP programs and want to make information more easily available for our customers. With the new website, they now have 24/7/365 access to our programs and services.”

The interactive site incorporates state-of-the-art technology, is highly graphic and emphasizes a contemporary, user-friendly design.

“We wanted to make this site attractive and appealing. After all, we want people to use it and enjoy their experience, so we did our best to make it easy,” added Norm Angrove, senior manager, PPG Value Added Programs. “This site is loaded with the timely and critical information our customers want. Navigation is clear and intuitive. Customers can find out about our MVP offerings and quickly get up-to-the-minute information about training, conferences and services. For example, one of the website’s key areas is Training Solutions which encompasses four sub-sections: Throughput Performance, Leadership, Business Fundamentals and ParaKaizen – all valuable tools for business success. I encourage everyone interested in our MVP programs to visit www.ppgmvp.com and learn more.”

Visitors to the site can quickly see where training courses and other events are being offered across North America, and can register online for these events.

The new site represents the first phase of PPG’s MVP website development. Even broader access to information, people and business solutions is coming in the next stage.

For more information about MVP Business Solutions, call 440-572-6149, e-mail MVPmailbox@ppg.com, or visit www.ppgmvp.com.

See the new link added to the Blogroll here on the autobody Blog and feel free to click and view the new site.

For many years PPG has worked closely with Lamborghini to develop colors that will enhance the design of these prestigious Italian automobiles. The introduction of PPG’s matte finishes created specifically for Lamborghini is set to be the latest automotive fashion style.

Lamborghini was one of the leaders of this trend when it introduced the Black Gallardo in 2006, featuring matte-black body parts. Following this initiative, a growing number of automakers are now using matte finish to highlight particular car body details. PPG is the exclusive supplier to Lamborghini for the matte colors. Lamborghini only recommends the use of PPG products when repairing matte colors.
The exciting progression of matte colors is a direct result of the close collaboration between Lamborghini and PPG Refinish. This led to the development of PPG’s new D8113 clear matte coat, designed to create a sports car effect and to accentuate these models’ style.

“All of our matte and special color cars are hand painted. We had to find a product that would not only ensure the aesthetic quality sought by our designers, but also meet the high performance standards required. PPG supported us once again, as it has done throughout the years of our collaboration during all the development stages: from product engineering to quality tests and training program for our Customer Support points,” says Claudio Nannetti, Quality Manager at Automobili Lamborghini. “The Lamborghini/PPG partnership is extremely successful and has led to excellent results. In over twenty years, we developed many painting processes for a range of different materials, from aluminums to composites, and countless finishes, including four-coat and matte finishes. Today, we are ready for new challenges and new research projects.”

This partnership also involves Lamborghini’s global support network. Achieving the special matte effect that enhances the car’s allure requires specific repair cycles and the use of dedicated, reliable, high-performing products. To ensure that its network was able to make repairs that would maintain and reinforce the brand’s high-quality reputation, a worldwide training program, focusing on matte colors, was initiated for all body shops specializing in the repair of these prestigious automobiles. This ensures that the repairs are carried out by specialized workshops after receiving specific training through PPG’s training centers worldwide, confirming once again the exclusive nature of these models and of matte finish.

Developed by PPG technicians and approved by Lamborghini, these training sessions, focused on the matte finish repair process, are designed to expand the operators’ skills in the use of specific painting systems and to allow them to learn techniques that ensure the best final result. Special attention has been placed on the repair of Nemesis black matte paint, one of the hardest to achieve, and on matte clearcoat application and drying time. The course has been shared with all PPG training centers worldwide, creating a unique Lamborghini matte color repair network.

To reinforce its total technical support, PPG also developed a manual, approved by the Lamborghini After sales organization, dedicated to the network of body shops specializing in Lamborghini vehicles worldwide and can be accessed by the entire global repair network. This details specific products to be used in each geographical area, depending on different regulations or logistic reasons.

Automotive Refinish has announced the formation of a strategic alliance with American Honda and its new Body Shop Recognition Program. American Honda has approved the credentials of PPG’s Certified First Network and MVP Business Solutions programs as qualifying refinish supplier performance programs.

“We are pleased to form this relationship with American Honda,” said Steve Topczewski, PPG OEM business development manager. “Honda has a solid quality reputation and sets very high standards for its collision center network. Being selected to team up with them through our Certified First and MVP programs is something we can be proud of.”
American Honda will recognize dealer-owned and independent body shops in the U.S. that

1.Participate in the PPG Certified First and MVP programs
2.Adopt its OE Connection’s Collision Link software program
3. Conduct a minimum number of transactions through the Collision Link system

Collision shops meeting the above requirements will have their name, address and contact information entered in a searchable database accessible by Honda/Acura owners as well as receive a plaque noting their commitment to refinish excellence.

Qualifying PPG-affiliated collision centers must be sponsored by a Honda/Acura dealer participating in the American Honda Collision Select Program. Additionally, eligible collision centers must adopt the OE Connection CollisionLink parts ordering software as a prerequisite to the program.

The Certified First Network is PPG’s national network of performance-driven collision centers designed to help participants effectively promote and improve their business through use of effective consumer and insurance marketing tools. PPG’s MVP Business Solution program encompasses a full range of business development training and support offerings that focus on improving the quality, speed and cost of running a performance-driven collision repair business.

PPG Industries has announced that I-CAR will offer points for PPG Envirobase® High Performance and Nexa Autocolor Aquabase® Plus through its Industry Training Alliance program. The training will make life easier for shops converting to waterborne systems as their workers will have the necessary skills needed to use these systems to their full potential. PPG offers a one day course which includes both classroom and hands on training. This course is held at PPG training facilities where appropriate or at community colleges across Canada. This course is a prerequisite for shops wishing to convert to PPG’s industry leading waterborne basecoats. People who attend this course also receive an application CD and simplified instructions on the use of the product.

“I-CAR recognizes the importance of lowering VOC emissions in an effort to help the environment,” says John Edelen, President and CEO of I-CAR. “PPG classes are among many excellent solutions available for training in waterborne technology, and we’re pleased that individuals taking them can apply for I-CAR points through this partnership between PPG and I-CAR.”

PPG has been a pioneer with automotive refinish waterborne products since the introduction of the first commercialized refinish waterborne basecoat in 1992 featuring innovative anti-settle technology. Taking advantage of its global research and colour capabilities, PPG continued to add refinements and innovations to its waterborne offerings. Today, PPG Envirobase® High Performance and Nexa Autocolor Aquabase® Plus systems are among the best in waterborne technology, and are successfully used by over 26,000 collision centers across North America and Europe.

With this training, waterborne conversion becomes easier. The PPG Envirobase® High Performance and Nexa Autocolor Aquabase® Plus systems are just as easy to use as solvent-borne systems and require no special additives. They feature a complete range of simple-to-blend non-stir toners. Superior colour accuracy provides consistent colour and metallic control across many application techniques.

”Waterborne basecoat is automotive painter’s dreams come true in my opinion. PPG Envirobase is almost fool proof to spray and match even the trickiest colors. You do not have to fight with the product to get the base to lie down evenly”. If you have not already tried PPG Envirobase in your shop you can contact your local representative to assist you in trying the product first hand. If you need help finding a rep in your area than you can comment here and I will assist you in finding one.

The 2009 PPG Platinum Distributor conference was “Making Waves”.  Surfs Up!

The 2009 PPG Platinum Distributor Conference was a wave of success. Open to all Platinum Distributor owners and their key employees, the conference took place at the Green Valley Ranch and Resort in Las Vegas in February.

“We would like PPG to know how much we appreciated being invited to participate in PPG’s 2009 Platinum Distribution conference,” said Gaétan Trudel and Daniel Montgrain of DG Peinture, Vaudreuil-Dorion, QC. “The meetings and conferences were extremely interesting and covered all the aspects relevant to our business. We also enjoyed the trade show, which covered all aspects of the collision repair business and varied in what it had to offer.”

The theme/slogan of the conference was “Making Waves” – coinciding with the full launch of PPG’s waterborne products, and the important role the new products will have in shaping future successes. PPG believes in these waterborne products, and is confident that they, along with the full portfolio of existing brands and products, will continue to “make waves” within the industry.

The conference allowed for networking with other Platinum Distributors throughout North America, while addressing daily challenges they may come across.

“Attending the PPG Platinum Distributor Conference in Las Vegas proved to be an excellent return” said Tim Yetman, GM of Advanced Coatings Ltd., Calgary, AB. “In today’s economic whirlwind, it is critical to stay on top of the latest industry trends, economies of scale, latest products and value added programming.”

Platinum Distribution is well positioned to “ride the wave” in order to achieve sales growth and long-term success within the respective businesses; therefore, PPG demonstrated its efforts to enhance relationships with distribution at the conference. The conference was also an opportunity to help distributors understand PPG’s direction and long-term vision of being the world’s leading coatings and specialty products and services company.

This was reiterated by Brian Custeau, President Custeau Peinture, Inc., Québec City, QC. “The conference was very beneficial in helping us understand the direction of PPG and their communicating long term vision. This vision is savvy in the sense of deliverables for distributors to differentiate in each of our marketplaces. We are confident that 2009 will show an increase in sales and demonstrates the true meaning of a 20 year partnership.”

PPG has the tools to help distribution during this economic downturn, Custeau comments; “while the economy has taken a downward spiral, commercial products are key to differentiate your business. Competition in our marketplace has a tight grasp on this business and the Commercial team communicated some excellent tools to win.”

PPG Automotive Refinish announced today they are assisting Penske Racing in converting their state-of-the-art, race car painting facility in Mooresville, North Carolina to the environmentally-friendly PPG Envirobase® High Performance waterborne coatings system.

The conversion began with the painting of the No. 2 Miller Lite and No. 77 Mobil 1 Penske Racing Dodge Chargers, which made their debut this weekend at the Kobalt Tools 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The No. 2 Miller Lite Dodge features the PPG Automotive Refinish logo on the deck lid for today’s race. PPG waterborne coatings specialist, Jim Skal has been working with Penske Racing staff at their headquarters in Mooresville, North Carolina on the conversion process. The switch to Envirobase® High Performance is part of Penske Racing’s on-going initiative to “green” business practices.

“Going green with a company that has a history of product leadership and innovation is the difference when making such a change,” said Roger Penske. “We are proud to have such a great working relationship with the entire PPG organization throughout our racing disciplines and with our automotive and truck leasing businesses.”
PPG has shared a business relationship with Penske Racing for almost 30 years. The partnership dates back to PPG’s involvement in automobile racing and sponsorship of the PPG Cup from 1979 to 1999. Over the course of the years, PPG has become Penske Corporation’s largest supplier of refinish coatings for its racing, truck leasing and collision repair divisions.

“We’re involved with Penske Racing because of Penske’s rich history and success in business and in motor sports. Partnerships that last over 25 years demonstrate a daily commitment to winning and the teamwork necessary to ensure both partners prosper,” said Bill Shaw, director of business development for PPG.

To address the environment, NASCAR, the sport’s sanctioning body, is developing an industry-wide green initiative led by Dr. Mike Lynch. The initiative will address environmental issues including reducing air emissions, refuse and lubricants recycling, building efficiencies and land preservation.. It will include the sport’s various stakeholders and will seek to mobilize the NASCAR fan base in this important issue.

The PPG Envirobase® High Performance system is currently in use in Europe, California and Canada where air quality regulations mandate lower volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in refinish basecoats. It is also being used by ecologically-conscious collision and automobile dealer centers throughout North America.

Automotive OEMs have been using waterborne basecoat technology for years. Use of PPG’s Envirobase® High Performance waterborne coatings helps improve air quality by significantly reducing the amount of VOC’s released into the atmosphere. The paint also provides the enhanced ability to match a vehicle’s original finish.
Penske Racing’s teams compete in the Indy Racing League’s Indy Car Series, Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series and NASCAR Nationwide and Cup Series. The cars competing in these series are built, prepared and painted at the Mooresville, NC facility.

Mercedes-Benz approves PPG premium paint brands for repair work

Daimler AG, manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, announced it has approved PPG’s Global Refinish System, including its innovative Envirobase® High Performance waterborne basecoat, for repair in North America of all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. In addition, PPG’s Delfleet commercial coatings system has been approved for repair of Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles. The approvals were based on the results of a rigorous four-day audit conducted by Mercedes-Benz representatives at PPG facilities in the United States and Germany.

Michael Gimpl, Daimler AG, Manager Global Service & Parts, said, “We are pleased to continue the collaboration with PPG in aftermarket sales as we are convinced of their premium product quality as well as their worldwide service capabilities that add value to our network.”

PPG locations visited by Daimler AG included the PPG corporate headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the production facilities and training center located in Delaware, Ohio and the PPG European Technical Center in Ingersheim, Germany.

“We are, of course, very pleased to be recognized by Daimler AG in this manner and to continue our partnership with them,” said Kevin Loop, PPG business development manager. “The audit, known as the Quality Management System Alignment, was extremely thorough and informative. There’s no better confirmation of quality than being approved by a premium manufacturer like Mercedes-Benz. Their choosing PPG as a paint partner is something we can be very proud of.”

The Daimler AG audit covered several elements:

•Quality planning
•Quality of supplied parts and materials
•System/process quality
•Quality product/process
•Failure management

“One of Mercedes-Benz’s highest priorities is customer satisfaction. To ensure they attain that goal, they require their partners to design, manufacture and deliver high quality products,” added Loop. “PPG will continue to provide Daimler AG with the high quality products they expect.”